Shut Up & Color

This past Sunday our dear friend and neighbor, Bryan (also a proud Texan) was at church with us. The sermon really spoke to my heart..."Be Still and Know that I AM God." Psalm 4:6. The pastor over and over told us to be still, be still. Well, if you know me at all, you know that I am not good at being still. But, Jason and I are in a tough spot in our young lives. We are facing the lose of Jason's father, Jason was recently laid off and all the other turmoil this world brings is crashing down on us. Did you know that the bible states to be still or do not be afraid 366 times? Think God it telling us something? Yet, I know that if I rely on my own strength, my happy marriage, my family, etc. I will be ok. But no, God tells me to rely on HIS strength, HIS love, HIS power...so ok, ok, I will shut up and color (as Bryan says) or as God says, I will "Be Still."

The Casting Crowns sing a song titled, "I Will Praise You in This Storm." The song brought tears to my eyes after this sermon spoke to my heart. If you have never heard this song, log onto their website; I have included the link, and listen, it will move you. http://www.reunionrecords.com/castingcrowns/altar/

I want to share the words with you, and also my favorite bible verse (John 16:33) and my new found favorite (Exodus 14:13 & 14).

As for me, I am going to strive everyday this week to be still, I am not doing great so far; I could use your prayers. Be blessed.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have OVERCOME the world." - John 16:33

Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today....The LORD will fight for you; you need only to BE STILL." Exodus 14:13&14.

"Praise You In This Storm"

I was sure by now

God You would have reached down

And wiped our tears away

Stepped in and saved the day

But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining

As the thunder rolls

I barely hear Your whisper through the rain"I'm with you"

And as Your mercy falls

I raise my hands and praise the God who gives

And takes away

And I'll praise You in this storm

And I will lift my hands

For You are who You are

No matter where I am

And every tear I've cried

You hold in Your hand

You never left my side

And though my heart is torn

I will praise You in this storm

I remember when

I stumbled in the wind

You heard my cry

You raised me up again

My strength is almost gone

How can I carry on

If I can't find You

As the thunder rolls

I barely hear You whisper through the rain"I'm with you"

And as Your mercy falls

I raise my hands and praise the God who gives

And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills

Where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord

The Maker of Heaven and Earth